Vermont Tech offers the state’s only Fire Science program, preparing students to pursue careers in firefighting, fire protection services, and affiliated professions. With a state-of-the-art burn building used for training, students gain critical hands-on experience in a variety of scenarios. Our Beck fire engine, which holds a 750-gallon water tank and seats six in an enclosed cab, is used to train students in the practical application of firemanship, putting classroom theories about hydraulics, strategy, and tactics into practice.

The curriculum includes coursework in fire behavior; emergency care; hazardous materials chemistry; incident strategy and tactics; administration of emergency services; fire prevention; education; and building construction. The program will also prepare students for the CPAT and certification in both firefighting (Vermont Firefighter I and II ProBoard) and emergency medicine (EMT). The program also provides strong leadership skills and instills graduates with a sense of community service. In the classroom and in the field, students develop enhanced critical-thinking and communication skills while applying what they learn through research and writing related to fire science.

A student with an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science will be able to:

Recognize the importance of building construction concepts and materials in fire safety; the effects of heat and fire on buildings; and the impact of fire to the personal safety of building occupants

Understand the science of hydraulics by demonstrating analytical skills needed for water system design including supply and suppression systems, community, and fire ground needs

Understand concepts of wellness and the CPAT

Successful completion of AHS 2011 and licensure as an Emergency Medical Technician through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is required for graduation from the Fire Science program. EMT licensure is a prerequisite for licensure as an Advanced EMT and for admission into paramedic training programs. The cost of the exam is covered by the State of Vermont the first time. A student who fails the exam is responsible for the fees for the retake. Retakes are available monthly. The student must pass the exam by the end of the sophomore year in order to graduate that year. Otherwise, the student will not be able to graduate until the following year. For more details, see AHS 2011.

Internships may be available for qualified students as either residential or day programs.